“Our number one priority is the safety of our children,” said Colonel Bill Grey, commander of the State Highway Patrol. “To accomplish this, we must continue to work together to reiterate the consequences that can result when a driver fails to yield to the flashing lights of a stopped school bus.”

Passing a stopped school bus is a Class 1 misdemeanor. If convicted, a person will receive five driving points on their driver’s license and could pay up to a $500 fine.

Passing a stopped school bus is a Class I Felony if the driver hits an individual. The crime also comes with a minimum fine of $1,250. If the accident results in death, the violation would be a Class H Felony and a minimum fine of $2,500.